A security deposit is a sum of money provided by a tenant to a landlord before moving in. This deposit serves to protect the landlord from any potential damages caused by the tenant during their stay. However, security deposits can also be referred to as damage deposits, rental deposits, or retention deposits. These different terms all represent the same concept of a sum of money paid upfront as a guarantee against any harm or neglect that may occur while renting a property. Regardless of the term used, security deposits are a common practice in the rental market to ensure a landlord's peace of mind and security.